EHS Cuts Energy Use 28%, Carbon Emissions 22.5% in $25M Modernization

Far Rockaway, New York, January 14, 2026 — Episcopal Health Services (EHS) announced a 28% drop in energy use and a 22.5% reduction in carbon emissions resulting from a three-year, $25 million mechanical and infrastructure modernization project at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital. The strategic investment underscores EHS’ commitment to environmental stewardship, operational reliability, and person-centered care.

Overseen by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) and guaranteed by DCO Energy, the project is more than 90% complete and remains on track for completion in Q1 2026. Once finalized, the initiative is expected to generate approximately $674,000 in annual savings.

“Fortifying our core infrastructure while significantly reducing our environmental impact is central to our vision for the future of this health system,” said Donald T. Morrish, MD, MMM, Chief Executive Officer of EHS. “This investment advances both sustainability and performance, ensuring we are equipped to meet the fundamental needs of our community not just today, but for years to come.”

The comprehensive capital project modernizes critical mechanical systems at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital. Focused on sustainability and long-term performance, the initiative includes replacement of HVAC units, boilers, chillers, transformers and lighting systems; upgrades to water-flow management; and the implementation of a state-of-the-art building management system to continuously monitor and optimize key environmental components.

These upgrades are already yielding measurable benefits, including reduced energy consumption, improved air quality, and increased system reliability. Patient experience has also been enhanced through improvements such as independent temperature controls in patient rooms, supporting comfort and personalization of care.

“At EHS, strengthening our infrastructure is essential to operating a reliable and high-performing health system,” said Karen Paige, MBA, RN, CPHQ, CPPS, CPXP, OCN, Executive Vice

President and Chief Operating Officer of EHS. “Investments in modern, high-efficiency systems improve resilience, streamline operations and support a more sustainable organization.”

Beyond major mechanical investments, EHS continues to advance a multi-year capital improvement strategy focused on energy efficiency, infrastructure modernization, and long-term operational resilience. Recent projects include the renovation of 45 bathrooms and 14 on-call rooms, improving both functionality and team support, as well as the completion of the seventh-floor renovation to expand overflow capacity for the Labor and Delivery Suite.

As part of its systemwide enhancements, EHS relocated and expanded the hospital’s Communications Room, integrating state-of-the-art technology to strengthen clinical coordination, emergency response, and call management. In addition, fire alarm systems throughout the facility are being upgraded with advanced, life-safety technology to improve reliability and compliance.

Once complete, the project will further reduce environmental impact, while enhancing system efficiency and operational performance.